Older people are at risk of developing mental health problems, neurological disorders or substance abuse problems. The most common mental health and neurological disorders in this age group are dementia and depression. Anxiety disorders, substance abuse problems, and suicide also occur in elderly people. Substance abuse problems in the elderly are often overlooked or misdiagnosed.
The elderly may experience common life stressors as well as stressors that are more common later in life, such as significant ongoing decline in functionality and decline in functional ability. All of these stressors can lead to isolation, loneliness or psychological distress in older people who may require long-term care.
Mental health affects physical health and vice versa. In addition to physical injuries, elder abuse can also cause serious, sometimes long-lasting, psychological consequences, including depression and anxiety. The mental health of older people can be improved by promoting active and healthy ageing.
The specific health promotion of the mental health of the elderly creates living conditions and environments that support well-being and enable a healthy life. Promoting mental health depends heavily on strategies to ensure that older people have the resources they need to meet their needs.